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While it remains to be seen how extensively Mike Pierce was hurt, as a result of a fight ending heel hook which Rousimar Palhares did not immediately release, but the rugged welterweight has picked up a lengthy medical suspension in the interim,

According to multiple reports, Pierce has been medically suspended for 180 days by Brazilian officials, following UFC Fight Night 29. The 33 year-old will be able to return to action earlier, however, provided he’s cleared by a physician.

Palhares has been banned by the UFC for not releasing the submission after the referee intervened and Pierce continued to tap-out. Pierce had won four straight heading into the fight, two of which had come via stoppage.

The only other fighter to received a medical suspension beyond 45 days was Erick Silva, who cannot fight for 60 days as a result of the knockout out loss he suffered versus Dong Hyun Kim.